Prehistoric man left tangible signs of his presence in the Riofreddo area. In fact, Palaeolithic flint tools, polished Neolithic axes and abundant pottery dating back to the Metal Age have been found.
Various “castellieri” have also been identified, i.e. fortified settlements built on high ground, which attest to the continuous use of this area so rich in fresh springs. One example is Colonna Castle, built in the 11th or 12th century. Its original shape must have been a quadrilateral with cylindrical towers at the corners and a keep at the front. During the various and numerous alterations that the castle underwent over the centuries, two of the four cylindrical towers were removed. It belonged to the noble families of Colonna, Del Drago and Pelagallo.
